Top 10 Places to Visit in Marche
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Latest page update: 14 April 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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This top ten list brings together the coastline, hill towns, caves and cultural sites that make Marche such a rewarding region to explore. From Renaissance landmarks in Urbino to the cliffs and beaches of the Conero Peninsula, there’s variety throughout.
Historic towns like Fano and Ascoli Piceno are joined by scenic villages such as Corinaldo and Ripatransone. There’s also natural wonder in the Frasassi Caves and a string of laid-back seaside towns along the Adriatic coast. Marche combines history, landscape and coastal life without the crowds. |
Ripatransone, Marche
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Urbino
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Urbino is a Renaissance hill town and UNESCO World Heritage Site, birthplace of the painter Raphael. Its historic centre is dominated by the Palazzo Ducale, once home to Duke Federico.
The palace now houses the National Gallery of the Marche, while other highlights include Raphael’s house and the town’s cathedral. Its steep alleys lead to sweeping views. Urbino is best reached by bus from Pesaro. It’s a cultural treasure that still feels authentic and lived-in despite its rich history. |
Palazzo Ducale, Urbino
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Conero Peninsula
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The Conero Peninsula is one of the most scenic parts of the Adriatic coast, with cliffs, turquoise water and hidden coves. The area is protected as a natural park.
Popular beaches include Spiaggia delle Due Sorelle, Mezzavalle and Sirolo. Inland, walking trails pass through pine forest and offer sea views from above. Sirolo and Numana are the main towns. The area is ideal for beach days, hiking and short boat trips along the coast. |
Conero Peninsula, Marche
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Ascoli Piceno
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Ascoli Piceno is a refined town in southern Marche with a historic centre built from pale travertine stone. Its main square, Piazza del Popolo, is one of the finest in Italy.
The town has Roman ruins, medieval towers and elegant arcades. The Caffè Meletti is a landmark in itself, and there are frequent festivals and cultural events. Ascoli is accessible by train or car from the coast. It’s full of character and ideal for those who enjoy architecture and history. |
Ascoli Piceno, Marche
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Fano
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Fano is a seaside town with a historic centre, Roman remains and long sandy beaches. It’s less touristy than nearby resorts but offers a good mix of culture and coast.
Highlights include the Arch of Augustus, medieval walls and colourful summer festivals. The town has a working fishing harbour and a relaxed atmosphere. Fano is on the Adriatic train line, making it easy to reach. It’s a good all-rounder for families, couples and history lovers. |
Fano, Marche
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Gradara
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Gradara is a perfectly preserved hilltop village with a large castle at its centre. It’s famous as the setting of the tragic love story of Paolo and Francesca in Dante’s Inferno.
The 12th-century fortress offers views of the surrounding hills and coast. The village itself is full of cobbled lanes, craft shops and panoramic walkways. Gradara is close to the border with Emilia-Romagna and just a short drive from Pesaro. It’s popular for day trips and romantic visits. |
Gradara, Marche
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Frasassi Caves
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The Frasassi Caves form one of Europe’s largest and most impressive karst cave systems. Visitors walk through vast caverns filled with stalactites and stalagmites.
The highlight is the enormous Ancona Abyss, large enough to contain a cathedral. Guided tours run daily and last around 75 minutes. The caves are near Genga and reached by car or shuttle. It’s a top natural attraction in central Italy and suitable in all weather. |
Frasassi Caves, Marche
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Senigallia
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Senigallia is a beach resort with a long sandy shoreline known as the Velvet Beach. It has a stylish seafront, lively nightlife and a historic centre inland.
Landmarks include the Rocca Roveresca fortress, the Foro Annonario and the distinctive round pier, La Rotonda a Mare. Summer events and concerts are frequent. Senigallia is on the main Adriatic train line. It’s one of the best seaside destinations in Marche, offering more than just sun and sea. |
Senigallia, Marche
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Corinaldo
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Corinaldo is a walled hill town with medieval towers, a scenic setting and a reputation as one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. It’s also known for its annual Halloween festival.
The 100-step staircase lined with colourful houses is a popular photo spot. There are churches, small museums and panoramic points around the old town. Corinaldo is inland from Senigallia and best reached by car. It’s a picturesque, quiet place that makes a great short visit. |
Corinaldo, Marche
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San Bendetto del Tronto
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San Benedetto del Tronto is one of the top beach resorts in southern Marche, with a palm-lined promenade, sandy beaches and a wide cycle path that runs along the coast.
The town combines resort life with a working fishing port and a seafood-based culinary scene. There’s also a modern art installation trail along the breakwater. Trains connect San Benedetto with other Adriatic towns. It’s ideal for beach holidays with a bit more personality and activity. |
San Benedetto del Tronto, Marche
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Ripatransone
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Ripatransone is a hilltop village overlooking the sea and mountains. It’s known for having Italy’s narrowest alleyway and for its wine production, especially Pecorino and Rosso Piceno.
The old centre has stone buildings, scenic viewpoints and quiet streets. Events and festivals are held year-round, drawing visitors from nearby coastal towns. Ripatransone is inland from Grottammare and San Benedetto. It’s a peaceful base or day trip for those wanting local charm and great views. |
Ripatransone, Marche
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